Following a narrow 111-109 victory over the LA Clippers, Orlando Magic guard Anthony Black emphasized the importance of consistency as the team pursues a top six seed in the Eastern Conference. After recovering from a grueling double-overtime loss to the Phoenix Suns, the Magic aim to improve on their previous Play-in tournament appearance amid a season where the Detroit Pistons have led the standings.
The Magic concluded the 2024-25 season with a balanced 41-41 record, securing the seventh-best slot in the conference. Black expressed confidence in the team’s ability to deliver their best basketball during the final stretch of the regular season, highlighting energy and defense as key factors, according to ESPN’s NBA Today.
Just getting consistent you know, with the way we play. Just the energy we bring every night, especially on the defensive side of the ball,
Black said.
Just making a push. We expect to be playing our best basketball in this stretch of the season. Just figuring it out.
In the victory against the Clippers, Black contributed 11 points, while Desmond Banae led the starters with 36 points. Key players Paolo Banchero and Wendell Carter Jr. also made significant impacts, scoring 16 and 15 points respectively.
Paolo Banchero Addresses Challenges Following Loss to Suns
After the tough loss to Phoenix and the hard-fought win over the Clippers, Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero offered reflections on the team’s performance and areas needing improvement. Banchero also noted the potential return of Jalen Suggs for the upcoming game against the Lakers, which will conclude their four-game road trip.
I wasn’t on the ball so I was focused on guarding the inbounder. I didn’t really see too much, just turned my head and the ball was in the air,
Banchero said, describing a critical moment that affected the outcome against the Suns.
I mean not ideal, but [I] thought we played hard, I just didn’t think we made enough plays down the stretch they made – a couple more than we did and yeah, definitely stings a little bit. Just [a] tough game.
The Magic hope to address these shortcomings as they prepare for their match against the Lakers on Tuesday, aiming to solidify their standing within the Eastern Conference.
Looking Ahead: Magic’s Push Toward Playoff Stability
With a strong and youthful roster, including Anthony Black, Paolo Banchero, and other key players like Desmond Banae and Wendell Carter Jr., the Magic are strategically enhancing their defense and team cohesion. Their recent performances show promise for securing a top six seed in the Eastern Conference, potentially improving their playoff positioning.
The upcoming game against the Lakers will be pivotal in maintaining momentum as the regular season winds down. If the Magic can sustain their energy and consistency, as emphasized by Black, they are poised to make a significant impact in the postseason.
"Just getting consistent you know, with the way we play."
Magic guard Anthony Black on what the team has to do to become a top six seed in the Eastern Conference 🏀 pic.twitter.com/iaky7rodM3
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 23, 2026
